This is the best U.S. airline, according to real flyers — so posh, it feels like flying private
In the just-released 2025 Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards, readers voted JSX the No. 1 domestic air carrier in the U.S. for the second year in a row. The annual list is based on thousands of reader-submitted survey responses and includes rankings for airlines, hotels, destinations, and more — all from people who actually travel frequently and care about comfort, convenience, and experience.
As a travel writer who flies constantly — for work, leisure, and most often a blend of both — I can say from firsthand experience: JSX is my very favorite airline, and always my go-to choice domestically if I have an option. I've flown with the carrier regularly for years (since the brand went by the name JetSuiteX) and every time I do, I find myself wondering why all air travel can't feel this easy.
Unlike traditional commercial airlines, JSX operates as a 'hop-on' public charter service, offering a semi-private flying experience from private terminals. That means I can skip the chaos of major airports — showing up just 20 minutes before takeoff, breezing through security, and boarding a crowd-free jet with just 30 seats (and no middle seats, ever).
Here's what else sets JSX apart — and why travelers are obsessed:
Business-class legroom for everyone, not just the front row
Free high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi that is ultra-reliable
Complimentary snacks and cocktails
Two free checked bags (even if one's a golf bag or snowboard)
Fast planeside baggage retrieval within minutes of landing
JSX connects 28 destinations including Las Vegas, Burbank, Orange County, Dallas, Salt Lake City, Scottsdale, Napa, and Taos, with service continuing to expand across the western U.S. and into Mexico. By flying in and out of smaller airports, JSX cuts down on traffic, stress, and wasted time — making it my go-to option whenever there's a route match. (Usually for me, that means between Los Angeles or Burbank and Las Vegas, my second home for both work and play.)
Technically, JSX isn't considered a standard commercial airline — it operates as a public charter carrier — but that hasn't stopped it from racking up major industry awards. In addition to back-to-back Travel + Leisure wins, JSX also earned a 2025 APEX Five-Star Regional Airline rating (its fourth straight year) and was named Best Regional Airline in North America.
It's not your typical flight, and that's exactly why I — and so many others, as proven by this big win — love it.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New York Times
14 minutes ago
- New York Times
Maddie, a Coonhound Who Awed Instagram by Balancing on Things, Dies at 14
Around 2011, burned out from his corporate photography job, Theron Humphrey hatched an idea to travel the country, interview people and take their portraits in all 50 states. He quit his job, crowdfunded $16,000 and prepared to hit the road for a year in his 1994 Toyota pickup truck. But there was one thing missing from his travel plans: a dog. Mr. Humphrey, who was 28 at the time, had never owned a dog, but growing up in the South, hounds were always around. He typed 'coonhound' into an online registry of adoptable pets, and an image of a caramel and white spotted dog with squinty eyes was the first result. 'I was like, 'Oh my gosh. She looks like a little deer.' I loved her speckles,' said Mr. Humphrey, who is now 42. 'That same day, I drove to the animal shelter, and I went to see her, and I left with a dog. I had no idea what I was doing.' In the years that followed, Mr. Humphrey crisscrossed the country and snapped tens of thousands of photos of Maddie, the coonhound he adopted that day. The pair traveled to 48 states, published two photography books and amassed more than 1.2 million Instagram followers along the way. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Forbes
2 hours ago
- Forbes
More Americans Are Taking A Road Trip This Summer. But Can They Afford It?
Americans are taking more road trips than ever. Here's what it means for you. getty The Great American road trip is back. But it's not the free-spending adventure it used to be. Americans are hitting the highway like never before – Enterprise Mobility reports a record 60 percent of Americans plan on traveling via personal or rental vehicle to their summer destination – but the classic joyride is overshadowed by economic anxiety. This summer is about dodging financial potholes and enduring screensaver-worthy traffic. "The summer road trip offers people the opportunity to explore the country with the flexibility and freedom to go where they want, when they want," says Bridget Long, senior vice president of North American operations for Enterprise Mobility. "Freedom and flexibility are key – and why many are turning to road trips this summer." Here are some of the key trends shaping the 2025 summer road trip: Less is more. Nearly two-thirds (62 percent) of summer travelers surveyed are cutting expenses to budget for their next trip. Nearly two-thirds (62 percent) of summer travelers surveyed are cutting expenses to budget for their next trip. No more restaurants. The most common expenses they are reducing are dining out, buying new clothes, or ordering takeout. The most common expenses they are reducing are dining out, buying new clothes, or ordering takeout. Millennials are the most frugal. Of those cutting back on expenses to afford their summer trip, Millennials (75 percent) are more cost-conscious than Gen X (60 percent) or Baby Boomers (48 percent). Other research corroborates Enterprise's findings. For example, a Credit Karma survey also suggests frugality is "in" this summer: 58 percent of Americans are scaling back travel spending, and 56 percent are choosing cheaper options like camping or visiting national parks. "With interest rates still relatively high, and overall macroeconomic conditions evolving, people are making some common-sense adjustments to their travel plans this year," says financial analyst Jay Abella. No question about it, travel is getting more expensive. And travelers have the sticker-shock stories to prove it. Consider Joel Silverstone's recent family roadtrip, which quickly turned pricey. "Nineteen dollar virgin margaritas and $20 chips with bad guacamole," he recalls. "That just kills your vacation." Time to fly? Nope, says Ruth Jennifer Cruz, a tech entrepreneur who crunched numbers. "After years of flight delays and airport chaos, people want predictable travel," she says. "Plus, the cost savings are substantial – even with gas prices, family road trips cost 60 to 70 percent less than flying." Americans are nostalgic for road trips "The road trip renaissance of 2025 reflects something more profound," explains Susan Sherren, owner of Couture Trips. "It's a nation slowing down long enough to appreciate what we have, to understand where we came from, and to create meaningful connections with both places and people." Sherren was surprised when her 85-year-old mother nixed an opportunity to visit Paris in favor of a road trip to see Lincoln's Springfield and the Oregon Trail. It's not all nostalgia. Staying home just feels safer. Jackie Mondelli, Squaremouth's chief marketing officer, cites her company's data: 34 percent of travelers under 40 feel more anxious about flying. "This also feels like a continuation of a trend that started during COVID, when people turned to RVs and road trips to reduce the risk of exposure," she says. "Since then, many have discovered they enjoy the freedom and flexibility of traveling by car." The control factor is huge, says seasoned road tripper and pro organizer Stephanie Deininger. "People want to explore their own country, not just fly over it," she says. "There's a growing desire to get to know your own state, your own region, your own neighbors. I think this will continue as people crave in-person connection." What does the 2025 road trip look like? Enterprise's data suggests Americans — in addition to saving money and avoiding air travel — are interested in culinary and cultural escapes. It found 50 percent of those surveyed said that their dream holiday includes a combination of relaxing and sightseeing activities, and 46 percent said they are looking to enjoy local food. There may be no better reason to take a road trip. The United States has some of the most diverse cuisine on the planet, from lobster rolls in Maine to Tex-Mex in the Southwest. You can plan your entire trip around food (and it is definitely worth it). And there's plenty to see. Shari Margolin, a travel advisor, just completed an epic road trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton. "National parks offer stunning beauty, affordability, and memorable vacation experiences," she says. Most American road trips will take place in July, according to Enterprise. And people are going big. "We've found roominess – the need for extra space – and a large trunk to be two of the top desired features of a rental for summer travelers," notes Long, the Enterprise executive. She says 47 percent of respondents to her survey planned to rent an SUV, and 37 percent are opting for a roomy sedan. How to take a successful 2025 road trip Want to actually enjoy your 2025 road trip? Steal these pro tips: Pack like a pro — and plan ahead. That's the advice of travel advisor Stacie Vinson. On a recent road trip with her toddler, her cooler burst open in the middle of a road trip and she lost her child's water bottle. "I didn't have a backup, and there wasn't a general store in sight for miles," she says. "Needless to say, my toddler threw a tantrum." Her advice: pack carefully — and make sure you have a backup for important items, just in case. Insure the journey: Mondelli notes a surge in road trip policies, which cover breakdowns, rental car damage, even luggage stolen from your car. "You get peace of mind," she says. Cut lodging costs. One way you can do it is by skipping the vacation rental platforms and booking directly with an owner. "Airbnb and take around 20 percent in booking commission fees out of the price," says Rebecca Ward, CEO of Simply Owners, a direct booking site. And one more thing. Be prepared for anything . The summer road trip is unpredictable. There's no easy way to tell how your summer road trip will be affected by politics, safety, gas prices or the expected crowds. And a reality check: Not everyone will be successful at saving money. Americans are set to spend an average of $2,867 per household this summer, according to a recent survey by Allianz Partners — that's a slight increase from last year. The road trippers I talked to for this story say they're proceeding with caution. They're planning their trips carefully, watching their bottom line, and expecting the unexpected. That's always a good idea, but perhaps never more than during the summer of 2025.
Associated Press
2 hours ago
- Associated Press
TPAC Sets New Standards in Private Aviation with Unmatched Privacy, Luxury, and Global Reach
TPAC's strategic vision aligns with Saudi Arabia Vision 2030, underscoring its role in elevating the private aviation sector as a symbol of national excellence. MIAMI, FL, UNITED STATES, July 20, 2025 / / -- The Private Aviation Company (TPAC), a premier provider of private aviation services, the private jet company, continues to redefine the travel experience for elite clientele by offering a seamless blend of luxury, discretion, and global connectivity. Founded in 2007, TPAC remains committed to excellence in every aspect of aviation. With access to a global fleet of over 15,000 aircraft, TPAC provides a broad spectrum of services, including Private Jet Charter, Group Charter on VIP aircraft and commercial airliners, Air Ambulance Charter, Cargo Charter, and Aviation Consultation. Each offering is designed to meet the high expectations of distinguished travelers who seek tailored travel solutions. At the heart of TPAC's success lies a steadfast commitment to privacy. State-of-the-art confidentiality protocols ensure that every client journey is conducted with the highest level of discretion. This dedication has positioned TPAC as a trusted name among high-profile individuals and organizations seeking secure and serene travel experiences. Client feedback reflects the company's core values: - Impressive, state-of-the-art aircraft. Travel has never felt so modern and luxurious! - Top-notch service from start to finish. It's clear they prioritize their clients. - Flawless service and unmatched luxury. Truly an exceptional private aviation experience! TPAC's strategic vision aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, underscoring its role in elevating the private aviation sector as a symbol of national excellence. Deeply rooted in Saudi heritage, the company embraces cultural values while actively contributing to the nation's economic transformation through service innovation and global standards of performance. As the private aviation landscape evolves, TPAC remains committed to expanding its leadership by delivering unparalleled experiences with integrity, precision, and world-class service. Contact Information: TPAC (The Private Aviation Company) Miami, Florida, United States Tel: +966 9200 19 109 Email: [email protected] The Private Aviation Company (TPAC) TPAC +966 9200 19 109 [email protected] Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Instagram X Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
